According to officials, the unattended dogs were discovered in the park on Dec. 11, but officials had trouble catching them. The park remained closed Wednesday as the search for the dogs continued.

“At this time, rangers and county animal control officers are working to confirm the location of the dogs and place them under control,” officials said in a release. “Until this occurs, the park will remain closed.”

The Whidbey News Times reported that the dogs attacked two hikers on Tuesday. An Oak Harbor resident and a friend were on a hike in the park when two dogs, both without collars, ran up to them. The dogs repeatedly growled and charged the pair, the News Times reported. The dogs bit one of the hikers and the other hiker was forced to run into a nearby bathroom.

When a park ranger spotted the dogs later on, he was forced to jump back into his vehicle and retreat when the dogs charged him, the News Times reported.

A park ranger told the News Times that it’s not unheard of for people to abandon their pets at the park.

WhidbeyOpenCarry

cronewinter

I don't carry a gun but my dog and I never go hiking without a bear strength pepper spray. I realize it probably wouldn't help in a bear attack but I'm pretty sure it would do the job on smaller animals and humans. At least I hope so because I will always hike and walk with my dogs.

Bill

I watched a Portland cop pepper spray an aggressive dog six times and it had very little effect. I wouldn't count on that pepper spray. Have you thought about what would happen If the wind is blowing your way? Now you're blind and have an aggressive dog to deal with.

Taekov Yahoser

Mark

Daniel

Used to be, not so much, and was voluntary. But nowadays it is required, and they are in fact law enforcement officers, which is a detail many folks are unaware of. But in this case perhaps there was too much risk of hitting a bystander downrange etc. Also, it is commonly reported that a "Ranger" did something when in fact it was park support staff.

Diane

syahj04

Gun contol at work again. LMAO OH darn I am in trouble, call 911 and wait for help that may not come in time before i get killed. Get a clue people buy a gun and learn to use it. The dogs would not be a threat to anyone again.